Luxury Scotland Holiday Cottages
Self-Catering Option to Hotels in Perthshire, at Kenmore by Loch Tay
Sep 8, 2008
Self-catering accommodation is a popular alternative to hotels in Scotland, with some luxury options available in some of the country's most scenic spots. Loch Tay in Perthshire is a beautiful and peaceful retreat in the Central Highlands, about 25 miles (40kms) northwest of Perth as the crow flies, although almost an hour's drive on the winding back roads – even more with stops for photography along the way.
Kenmore
Kenmore is the main base on the loch's shores, a tiny village but with some luxury self-catering holiday cottages, including those from Mains of Taymouth. Kenmore also has the Kenmore Hotel, established in 1572 and recognised as Scotland's oldest inn.
Mains of Taymouth
Mains of Taymouth is a family-operated 120-acre estate, with the self-catering luxury cottages built around what was once the farm for Taymouth Castle. The castle is reputedly being developed as "Scotland's first 6-star hotel", though that's an ongoing story and looks to be quite a while in the future yet.
Until the 6-star hotel arrives, Mains of Taymouth have seven 4- and 5-star holiday cottages in Kenmore, sleeping from 2-40 people, and based in 19th-century stone buildings set around an attractive courtyard. The traditional exteriors conceal superbly modern décor inside, with such features as large, flat-screen digital Sky TVs, DVD players, music systems, central heating, log fires, fully-fitted kitchens, utility rooms with laundry facilities, BBQs outside, and some even have their own saunas and hot tubs. (Not all facilities are standard in all cottages, so check first.)
The cottages are just a few yards from the Courtyard delicatessen, and the restaurant and bar, with other Kenmore dining options just a short stroll away. Guests also have access to the site's own riding stables, and its 6,092 yard Kenmore Golf Course, with the Taymouth Castle Golf Course just on the other side of the River Tay.
Loch Tay
Loch Tay is about 14 miles (22kms) long, with a road all the way round, though it is rather narrow in places, with passing points. There are a few small villages and tiny settlements around the loch, with the larger village of Killin, famous for the Falls of Dochart, at the far end of the loch from Kenmore. Loch Tay's the 6th largest loch in Scotland, and on its shores is the wonderful Scottish Crannog Centre.
Crannogs were dwellings built on supports on the edge of a loch, partly as protection for the people and their domestic animals, and dating back some 5,000 years. At the Scottish Crannog Centre is a unique opportunity to see one of these early Iron Age dwellings, faithfully rebuilt. A guide tells visitors about life at the time, and there are exhibitions and an opportunity to try some of the Iron Age tools.
Kenmore Activities
Other activities in and around Kenmore include the watersport centre, walking and Monro-bagging, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, Highland Safaris, quad biking, and flying lessons too.
Whatever the daytime activities, it's good to know that a comfortable – indeed luxurious – home awaits at the end of the day, with several fine dining options a short walk or drive away. Or just buy a pizza and a bottle of wine at the Courtyard Deli, and curl up in front of the TV.
For further informationand for bookings see the Mains of Taymouth website.
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